What does 'dynamic range' mean in the context of digital radiography?

In digital radiography, 'dynamic range' refers specifically to the range of exposures that a system can accurately capture, which aligns perfectly with the selected answer. This concept is crucial because it indicates the system's sensitivity and ability to record varying levels of radiation exposure. A broader dynamic range allows the imaging system to produce usable images across a wider spectrum of exposure levels, from very low to very high.

This capability is essential for obtaining high-quality diagnostic images, as it accommodates different patient sizes, anatomical structures, and varying imaging conditions. It ensures that both underexposed and overexposed areas can be visualized adequately, leading to better interpretation of the radiographs.

The other options do not correctly define the term 'dynamic range': exposure time limits refer to the timing of the imaging process rather than the sensitivity of the detector; the availability of film types is unrelated to how the digital system operates; and while energy levels of the radiation source are important, they are not a direct measurement of the system's ability to capture varying exposures.